11 Best Drill Bits for Hardened Steel [Review & Buyer’s Guide]
Figuring out the right drill bits to use for projects can be challenging. We can help you find the best ones to use for hardened steel. It’s true – most household projects require a simple tapered drill bit that is easy to find and easier to work with. However, this changes when you are working […] The post 11 Best Drill Bits for Hardened Steel [Review & Buyer’s Guide] appeared first on Homesthetics - Inspiring ideas for your home..
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Figuring out the right drill bits to use for projects can be challenging. We can help you find the best ones to use for hardened steel.
It’s true – most household projects require a simple tapered drill bit that is easy to find and easier to work with. However, this changes when you are working with hardened steel. Unlike other materials like wood and plastic, hardened steel is more rigid and challenging to work with.
Fortunately, you don’t need to worry about finding the best ones for your requirements. We have covered the top 11 drill bits to use with hardened steel.
In this guide, you will find out more about these products and be able to weigh their pros and cons. Furthermore, we have added a short buyer’s guide to help you choose the right one for your requirements.
So without waiting any longer, let’s begin!
Best Drill Bits for Hardened Steel
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | |
|---|---|---|---|
Our Top PickOur Top Pick | DEWALT Titanium Drill Bit Set DW1361 |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | BOSCH CO14B |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | NEIKO Left Hand Drill Bit Set 10037A |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | CO-Z Drill Bit Set |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | COMOWARE TGHEXSHANK |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | HURRICANE YL-JQYI-K6YM |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | IRWIN 3018002 |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | Drill America KFD29J-PC |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
 | STROTON Metric Twist Drill Bits Set |
| VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
One of our best recommendations for you is the DEWALT Titanium Drill Bit Set DW1361. As the name tells you, these drill bits are made of sturdy, durable titanium, which is super tough and can penetrate easily through hardened steel. Each tool comes in a spiral design which gives it added strength and resistance against hard metals.
- DEWALT drill bit set has connectable accessory storage...
- Patented bit-bar design of the drill bits set allows easy...
- Clear lid of the titanium drill bit set allows you to easily...
- Clip latch for secure closing
Why Did We Like It?
We love the sturdy build quality of this DEWALT product. The titanium bits with the proprietary pilot point tip are easy to use, offer immense rigidity and balance while expertly delivering speed and precision. Furthermore, their unique design and angles allow you to create burr-free holes that are excellent at reducing bit walking.
Moving on, the manufacturer provides a fantastic accessory storage system with connectable bits. This helps you optimize storage space within the toolbox, while its transparent lid enables you to see the contents of the box with ease.
Next up, we want to talk about the patented design of the bit-bar on this drill kit set. It allows you to easily customize the placements of each tool and remove each piece without struggle. The patented web taper design on each drill bit also increases their rigidity, preventing easy breakage of the tools.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The manufacturer only offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. Although this may initially seem like a good thing, in case you have any problems with the parts after the 30-day period, you will need to repair or replace them without the assistance of the company.
- Clip latch on the toolbox for secure closing
- Proprietary parts offer extra rigidity
- Titanium coating that sustains for a lifetime
- Customizable storage box included
- The manufacturer only offers a 30-day money-back guarantee
Moving on to our next product, we want to introduce you to the 15-piece drill bit set from COMOWARE. Those who are tired of frequently breaking or chipping their drill bits will love the added rigidity and durability of this product. Curious to know more about it? Take a look.
- HIGH QUALITY MATERIAL: 5% Cobalt High Speed Steel M35...
- TWIST DESIGN & PERFORMANCE: PRECISE 135°SPLIT POINT, gold...
- PROFESSIONAL & WIDELY USE: M35 Cobalt HSS is more suitable...
- SIZE INCLUDED: 15pcs jobber length drill bit set with...
Why Did We Like It?
Are you looking for sturdy, durable drill bits that you can use on tough materials like hardened steel without constantly worrying about breakage and damage? It’s time to take a look at the COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set.
You may be wondering what gives this drill bit set added durability and rigidity compared to competitor products. For starters, this toolset uses M35 cobalt high speed steel which is super tough and resistant to almost all kinds of materials and pressure. Moreover, its gold oxide finish gives it an aesthetic appeal that adds class and elegance.
The manufacturer provides a handy, organized holder with a fantastic size index. This helps you quickly identify the various drill bits and allows you to organize them neatly for easier access.
Finally, we love the unique 135° split point tip that features a twisted design. This unique design instantly increases drilling speed and offers precise holes while preventing walking.
What Could’ve Been Better?
All in all, this drill bit set is excellent and offers great value for money. The only minor flaw we noticed was that the lower and middle rows of drill bits, unfortunately, cover the labels that help you identify the upper row drill bits.
You can fix this issue by printing out the respective labels and gluing them to the top of the holder for better visibility.
- Excellent organizer included
- High-quality M35 cobalt 5% high speed steel
- Unique design provides increased penetration and reduced thrust
- 100% satisfaction guarantee offered by the manufacturer
- The lower and middle row drill bits cover the labels for the upper rows
Looking for a slightly smaller drill bit set that delivers breathtaking performance and durability? Take a look at this 14-piece drill bit set from BOSCH. The BOSCH CO14B features upgraded M42 alloy metal drill bits that offer enhanced durability and strength compared to other products on the market. Find out more about it below.
- Cobalt M42 drill bit – provides upgraded M42 Cobalt...
- Enhanced M42 alloy material – contains 8% Cobalt alloy...
- High-heat resistant bits – withstand high-temperature...
- Thick web-helix design – provides additional stability in...
Why Did We Like It?
Not everyone is looking for an extensive drill bit set that contains two dozen tools for various applications. If you have been looking for a smaller set that offers utility, functionality, and versatility, take a look at the BOSCH CO14B. This 14-piece drill bit set is ideal for DIYers and homeowners looking for a small kit that has multiple functions.
We love the cobalt M42 build that features 8% pure cobalt and enhanced materials. This gives each drill bit immense rigidity, strength, and durability. Not just that, these drill bits have been designed to deliver ultimate performance when used on tough materials like hardened steel.
The heat-resistant material is excellent for prolonged use. It enables you to use the drill bits for prolonged periods without worrying about damage or wear and tear due to exposure to heat. We also love the unique thick web-helix design that is not only aesthetic but also provides added stability.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Although these drill bits are extremely tough and work fantastically on hardened metals, it is best to use a slow speed on the drill. This gives you more precise and accurate cuts and performs better overall. However, it can be slightly time-consuming. We wish the manufacturer had provided these detailed instructions to enhance users’ experience.
- Surface-hardened tip
- Heat-resistant material
- Thick web-helix design
- Three-flat shank reduces bit slippage
- Detailed usage instructions not provided
Are you on the lookout for special left-hand drill bits that can be used with reversible drills? Check out our next recommendation – the NEIKO Left Hand Drill Bit Set 10037A. This drill bit set consists of 15 high-quality, high speed steel bits that have a special titanium nitride coating.
- [QUALITY]: This drill bit set is constructed of high speed...
- [DESIGN]: These drill bits come with a twist design to...
- [LEFT-HAND BITS]: Special left hand design can also be used...
- [CONVENIENCE]: Each bit has an assigned hole in a drill bit...
Why Did We Like It?
Few drill bits on the market come in a special left-hand design that is ideal for use with reversible drills. Fortunately, after extensive research and testing, we came across this excellent 15-piece drill bit set from NEIKO.
For starters, this high speed steel drill bit set features a special titanium nitride coating that gives it enhanced durability and high surface hardness. This makes it an ideal tool kit to be used with tough materials like hardened steel.
We also love the excellent storage box provided by the manufacturer. This storage box features a handy size index that helps you quickly identify the right tools to use for specific applications. Furthermore, the unique twist design on each drill bit efficiently enhances cutting speed, while the angled 135-degree split point offers accurate self-centering.
Not just that, its strategic design effectively prevents bit walking and automatically clears particles and chips faster.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Overall, this drill bit set is excellent for most users. However, we noticed that once in a while, we had to use an extractor. This didn’t happen too often, so it’s not a deal-breaker. But when we went through the customer reviews, we noticed a few other customers talking about the same experience.
- Handy storage box with size index
- Left-hand design enables drill bit usage with reversible drills
- High surface hardness enhances penetrative power
- Special titanium nitride coating enhances durability
- May need the help of an extractor once in a while
We have almost reached the midway point of our list of recommendations. If you still haven’t decided on the right drill bit set for your requirements, don’t worry. We have several other products to show you. Allow us to introduce you to the next one – the CO-Z Drill Bit Set.
- Cobalt high speed steel along with the titanium coating...
- Different sized shanks ensure compatibility with 1/4, 3/8...
- Non-walking drill tip provides fast and smooth drills on...
- Please mark the spot that you are to drill for easier...
Why Did We Like It?
Is storage an issue for you? If you are looking for a super versatile drill bit set that offers massive functionality for different applications but doesn’t take up too much space, take a look at the CO-Z Drill Bit Set. This product features 5 pieces of step drill bits that give you the power of 50 different drill bits. Find out more about this kit below.
This unique step drill bit set enables you to drill holes of different sizes without struggling with changing each drill bit individually. Furthermore, its high-quality materials and enhanced durability ensure that the bits don’t snap, chip, or shock you.
Each drill bit has smooth hole edges, making them the ideal tool to use for HVAC jobs. What’s more, they enable you to create smooth, round holes with precision. The strengthened drill bits allow you to drill holes smoothly through tough metals like hardened steel.
Lastly, we love the aluminum case provided by the manufacturer. This case features a handy size index that helps you identify the drill bits effortlessly.
What Could’ve Been Better?
All said and done; this step drill bit set is not compatible with hammer drills. This can be slightly problematic for some users who do not have other types of drills at home. That said, this isn’t a major flaw or a deal-breaker, in our opinion.
- 50 individual drill bits in 5 pieces
- Strong and durable pieces
- Handy aluminum storage case
- Creates smooth, round holes
- Not compatible with hammer drills
Those looking for an affordable drill bit set will appreciate the 30-piece kit from COMOWARE. This product features classic high speed steel drill bits with a titanium coating which offers added durability and rigidity to the tools. The kit is ideal for professionals as well as DIYers, containing all the essential drill bits you could require for any job.
- HSS Titanium Coating - Classic HSS construction with...
- Flutes Form - 2 flutes form helps clear chips and debris...
- Quick Change - 1/4 inch hex shank fits into all power tools...
- Meet Your Demands - Great drill bits set for...
Why Did We Like It?
The first thing we want to talk about is the versatility of this 30-piece drill bit set. Each drill bit is made of high-quality, high speed steel and features a special titanium coating that gives it enhanced durability. Furthermore, the N-shaped 135-degree point angle offers precise, accurate holes without “bit walking”.
Moving on, the cutting edge of each drill bit is honed and hardened for added sharpness. It also offers a chatter-free design and ensures a smooth, clean hole.
Next up, we appreciate the two flute design that automatically cool the drill bits during prolonged drilling. Furthermore, it decreases friction and provides a better hold over the surface being drilled. Let’s not forget, this unique design also helps clear debris and chips more effectively.
Lastly, we want to talk about the organized holder and included a quick-change adapter that makes the kit more user-friendly and functional – even for first-time users.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Overall, we had no major complaints about this product and found it to be entirely satisfactory. If we had to point out one minor drawback, we would talk about the absence of an integrated hanging spot that would enable us to hang the drill holder on a peg. Other than that, there is nothing much to complain about.
- Quick change adapter enhances the user-friendliness of the product
- Suitable for use on a variety of hard surfaces
- Chatter-free staggered cutting teeth
- Unique two-flute design
- Cannot hang the drill holder from a peg
It’s time to move on to our next product recommendation. We are excited to introduce you to the HURRICANE Drill Bit Set YL-JQYI-K6YM. This 230-piece drill bit kit has been designed for professional use but can be used by DIYers as well. Find out more about this drill bit set below.
- PREMIUM MATERIAL: Manufactured from high speed steel for...
- STORAGE: Supplied in a plastic storage box for easy storage...
- Widely USED: The 135° fast cutting point is automatically...
- PROCESS TREATMENT: Titanium coated surface prevent...
Why Did We Like It?
Those looking for a complete and versatile set of drill bits will appreciate the 230-piece drill bit set from HURRICANE. Each item is made with high speed steel and titanium coating. It effectively provides high-quality performance and enhanced durability. Not just that, the set is designed to perform fantastically on tough, solid metals like hardened steel.
Next up, the rounded straight shank design fits most drills without hassle, allowing you to choose between varying options. The 135-degree split point helps you achieve ultimate precision while effectively avoiding bit walking.
The 230 pieces of drill bits can be neatly organized in the included storage holder provided by the manufacturer. This plastic holder is compact, sleek, and easy to store away when it is not in use.
Last but not least, each drill bit is wear-resistant, rust-proof, and effective in reducing friction and heat that typically accompanies the process of drilling hardened steel.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Honestly, we did not face any issues while using the drill bits. The only drawback of this product is the included plastic storage case. There is no clear index for the various sizes of the drill bits, which can lead to confusion and messy storage in the long term.
- Wear-resistant and rust-proof
- Storage box enables easy transportation
- Titanium coating enhances durability
- Versatile and functional product
- The storage box has no size index and can become messy over time
IRWIN is one of the leading manufacturers of drill bits in the American market. This company has been in the industry for over a century, designing and developing some of the toughest, most durable drill bits that can penetrate through the most rigid alloy metals. To find out more about this product, read on.
- 29 Piece
- Cobalt Drill Bit Set
- Sizes 1/16 inch -1/2 inch in 1/64 inch increments, 135...
- 5% Cobalt For Higher Heat & Abrasion Resistance
Why Did We Like It?
The first thing we noticed when we picked up this 29-piece drill bit set was the immaculate packaging and high-quality craftsmanship. Each of the 29 pieces of drill bits is made of high-quality cobalt and can effectively withstand extreme heat and friction, enabling you to drill precise holes in tough materials like hardened steel.
Moreover, their unique design is capable of withstanding abrasion, enhancing the long life of the tools.
Moving on to its next feature, we want to talk about the included storage kit. For starters, this storage kit features removable cartridges that make transportation on the worksite a breeze. Not just that, you will notice an automatic indexing that helps you organize the drill bits by size, making them readily accessible during important tasks.
We also appreciate the protective rubber mold case that protects the storage kit in case it is dropped. It is also beneficial in protecting the case against scratches and stains.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The thinner drill bits need to be used with caution, as they have a tendency to snap if used incorrectly. It is best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions thoroughly and use the right oil to facilitate proper drilling without causing damage to the surface or the tools.
- Removable cartridges for easy transportation
- Automatic indexing for easy identification
- Rubber molded case
- 5% cobalt facilities abrasion and heat-resistance
- You must use the right oil before using the drill bits
Moving on to our next product, we have the Drill America KFD29J-PC. This drill bit set looks unique compared to the rest of our products. For starters, it features a beautiful black and gold oxide finish that looks super aesthetic and classy. Moreover, it comes in a handy round carrying case, which has immense utility.
- Assortment of 29 jobber length drill bits includes inch...
- High-speed steel (HSS) provides hardness for wear resistance
- Black and gold oxide finish resists corrosion and increases...
- Self-centering 135-degree split point penetrates hard...
Why Did We Like It?
As you may imagine, the first thing that attracted us to this product was its stunning looks. For starters, the black and gold oxide finish looks absolutely gorgeous and unlike any other drill bits we have seen on the market. The manufacturer has also provided a round carrying case that matches perfectly with the drill bits.
Each bit features a 135-degree split point that offers steady and accurate drilling performance – no matter how tough the surface. These self-centering bits also penetrate tough materials with ease without the typical pilot hole. Furthermore, its unique design prevents clogging by producing smaller chips that are easy to get rid of.
The beautifully designed round storage case is easy to carry. Moreover, it features a hanger that allows you to easily clip the unit onto your belt, facilitating easy transportation. Each drill bit can be organized neatly within the storage holder with a handy size index to help you identify each bit when required.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Our only caveat with this drill bit set is the absence of a manufacturer’s warranty. As such, if you break or damage any part of the kit, it is entirely your responsibility to get it repaired or replaced. We feel like this policy is quite unfair on the part of the manufacturer.
- 135-degree split point reduces clogging
- Black and gold oxide finish helps resist corrosion
- Easy-to-carry plastic storage case
- Easy-to-access belt clip
- No manufacturer’s warranty
We are almost at the end of our list, but before we move on to the next section, we want to introduce you to the STROTON Metric Twist Drill Bits Set. This drill bit set is made of 8% cobalt steel and features a twist design. The M42 grade cobalt effectively increases strength and makes the steel more heat-resistant and wear-resistant.
- Premium M42 8% Cobalt Steel ,68-70 HRC (Rockwell Hardness...
- 3 Steps Desigh for Cutting through Stainless Steel,Hard...
- This Cobalt Drill Bit is Typically Capable of Running Three...
- The Sufficiently Sharp Bit Edge Can Cut the Metal Material...
Why Did We Like It?
Let us begin by talking about the heavy-duty construction of this drill bit set. The metal consists of high-quality M42 high speed steel with 8% cobalt. This makes the drill bits more heat-resistant, gives them higher hardness and helps with faster drilling or cutting. Moreover, the fully ground body enables minimal burr, which allows you to achieve perfect, precise cuts.
Moving on, this drill bit set scores a 68-70 on the Rockwell Hardness Scale – which is pretty impressive. The unique three-step twist design helps the drill bits efficiently cut through tough metals like hardened steel with ease.
Also, the tools are made with premium cobalt, which makes it slightly more expensive than competitor brands, but also adds to its toughness and durability.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Although we appreciate the inclusion of a cartridge with size indexing, we missed the handy storage holder that most other manufacturers provided. As such, customers need to purchase a storage holder separately for this drill bit set.
- 3-step twist design enhances drilling efficiency
- Ideal for tough, hardened metals
- Heat and wear-resistant
- It prevents bit walking on the surface of the metal
- No storage holder provided
One of our final recommendations for you is the Amoolo Drill Bit Set. This 13-piece drill bit set is made of industry-grade 6542 HSS. The steel alloy consists of 5% M35 grade cobalt which effectively increases the heat-resistance characteristic of the drill bits. Find out more about this excellent set below.
- 【Premium Quality】Made of industry grade 6542 high speed...
- 【Most Commonly-Used 13 Sizes】A complete combo set of 13...
- 【Precise & Efficient Drilling Performance】
Fully... - 【Multiple Application】Perfectly suitable for cutting...
Why Did We Like It?
After extensive research, we came across a reliable company that has several years of experience under its sleeve – Amoolo. This 13-piece drill bit set is made of the highest quality 6542 high speed steel and contains 5% cobalt. The addition of 5% cobalt instantly adds strength and high resistance to the drill bits. However, it can also make the tools slightly brittle if used improperly.
We love that this set scored 67 on the Rockwell Hardness scale, further cementing our trust in the brand and its products. The fully ground spiral groove design helps decrease friction and reduce heat while clearing particles quickly for better workflow.
Furthermore, the 135-degree split point features a straight shank that effectively eliminates bit walking and helps you achieve precise cuts. The manufacturer has included a portable storage holder that enables you to carry the drill bit set to your work site.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Our only gripe with this product was that the manufacturer provides only a short 90-day warranty. Although the presence of a warranty is a good sign, we feel that the warranty should have been for a more extended period.
- Manufacturers instructions provided on using the drill bits safely
- Spiral groove design removes particles quickly
- Portable storage holder
- Enhanced wear-resistance
- The manufacturer only offers a 90-day warranty
Hardened Steel Drill Bit Buyer’s Guide
Now that we have finally reached the end of our list of recommendations, we have one last section for you. Here, we will discuss some of the most important factors of consideration that can help you choose the best drill bit set for your requirements.
Take a look!
-
Material
Hardened steel is one of the toughest metals to drill through – which is why you need an even tougher drill bit to pierce through it. While there may be several options on the market, high speed steel and cobalt are the best ones for this tough metal.
When looking for the best drill bits on the market, ensure that you check the material used and the percentage of cobalt it contains (if any).
-
Length
The length of the drill bit you choose depends on your project. Although shorter drill bits can be easier to work with and provide more accuracy, they aren’t suitable for deeper penetration into thick metals.
That being said, long drill bits can be a little challenging to manage. Moreover, the longer the drill bit, the more risk there is of bit walking.
-
Angle
The angle of a drill point refers to the angle created by the tip of the drill bit. While a 118-degree angle works relatively well and is considered the standard angle for drill bits, a 135-degree angle is much more accurate for drilling.
Verdict
It’s time to wrap up our comprehensive guide. We hope this helps you find the best drill bit set for your projects.
Before we sign off, give us another moment to recap some of our favorite products. Overall, we loved using the DEWALT Titanium Drill Bit Set DW1361. Its titanium construction and exceptional storage holder were a pleasure to use.
You can also consider the COMOWARE Cobalt Drill Bit Set. The manufacturer provided a 100% satisfaction guarantee, which reinstates our trust in the brand. And finally, those looking for a slightly smaller drill bit kit that provides all the utility of larger kits can consider the BOSCH CO14B.
Let us know which product is your favorite and why. Until then, take care and stay safe!
The post 11 Best Drill Bits for Hardened Steel [Review & Buyer’s Guide] appeared first on Homesthetics - Inspiring ideas for your home..
